Google Nest WiFi release date, price & specs
At the latest Made by Google event the Californian search giant unveiled a range of new products including a new mesh Wi-Fi network: Google Nest WiFi.
This is essentially a follow-up to the previousGoogle Wifi, but under the new Google Nest branding which now covers all of the company’s Google Assistant-powered smart home tech. It’s also had a redesign to bring in softer curves, a simpler aesthetic, and a few welcome colour options.
When is the Google Nest WiFi release date?
The Nest WiFi releases in both the US and UK on4 November, but you canorder it from Google.
Read ourGoogle Nest Wifi review.
How much does the Nest WiFi cost?
You’ll be able to grab the Router alone for £149/$169, a two-pack of a Router and Point for £239/$269, and a three-pack with a Router and two Points for $349 – though that last set isn’t available in the UK.
The Point will also be sold separately for £129/$149, but that’ll be online-only to avoid confusion, since without a Router none of its mesh Wi-Fi functionality will work.
What are the new specs & features?
That mention of the Google Assistant is no accident – the biggest addition to Nest WiFi is that it essentially doubles up as a set of Nest Mini speakers, packing far-field microphones and speakers directly into the hardware.
There’s no speaker in the Router – the part that connects directly into your phone line – but the second device, the Point doubles not only to expand your Wi-Fi coverage but also to spread the Google Assistant around the house. The audio capabilities are the same as in theNest Mini, also announced today, and it also has a physical microphone mute switch for when you don’t want Google listening in.
In terms of tech specs, the main Router has a 4×4 radio for Wi-Fi, together with Bluetooth and a thread radio for controlling your smart home devices. Each Point has a 2×2 radio, the same Bluetooth and thread capabilities, and a machine-learning chip to help power the Google Assistant on-device.
Author: Dominic Preston, Contributor
Previously Tech Advisor’s Deputy Editor, Dom covers everything that runs on electricity, from phones and laptops to wearables, audio, gaming, smart home, and streaming.
